LISBON, Portugal — The final round of the Portuguese league promises drama as Sporting Lisbon and Benfica head into it tied on points after a tense derby ended 1-1 on Saturday. Both teams came into this crucial match knowing that a clear victory would give them the upper hand in claiming the championship.
Sporting Lisbon had the chance to secure the title with a win at their rival’s turf. Conversely, Benfica needed a victory by at least two goals to capture the top spot. However, as the match concluded in a draw, the competition remains wide open. Sporting holds a slight advantage, having previously defeated Benfica 1-0 this season, hence they just need to replicate Benfica’s outcome in the next fixture. On the other hand, Benfica must outperform Sporting to clinch the title.
The game kicked off energetically with Sporting taking an early lead. Just four minutes in, Francisco Trincão found the net, thanks to a setup at the edge of the box by Viktor Gyökeres. However, Benfica responded in the 63rd minute when Muhammed Aktürko?lu equalized. The goal resulted from a spectacular display by Greek striker Vangelis Pavlidis, who dribbled past multiple defenders before providing the assist for the equalizer.
Looking ahead to the final round, Sporting will face off against Guimaraes at home, while Benfica travels to Braga for their last shot at the crown. Fans are eagerly anticipating what promises to be an electrifying climax to the season.